Be The Change, Inc. was founded to inspire collective action with the singular belief that it is only when citizens unite behind one cause that real change can occur. It works in the organization to instill a culture of civic responsibility and involvement that can cut across racial, religious, and political divides. The core of the organization-in simple terms-is this: at a time when society and the environment are beset with so many complex problems, positive changes can be affected by any person through reflective actions, advocacy, and collaboration. In line with this, Be The Change, Inc. works to build strong, inclusive, progressive communities by empowering people throughout all levels of society.
The approach of Be The Change, Inc. toward creating impact is perhaps one of the defining characteristics-from the grassroots level up. While many organizations depend on top-down strategies, this organization believes in the power of local voices and initiatives. Believing that every community has unique needs, resources, and strengths, Be The Change, Inc. urges local leaders to take action, listen to their neighbors, and help solve issues closest to them. Not only does this foster a closer relationship among the residents, but it also brings about more sustainable solutioning-as people have a personal interest in the outcome.
At the heart of Be The Change, Inc. lies a deep dedication to equity. Truthfully speaking, the organization believes some of the most perplexing issues-poverty, disparities in educational opportunities, environmental injustices-are manifestations of structural inequalities. Rather than quick fixes, Be The Change, Inc. invests in initiatives that break down those barriers by providing resources, education, and advocacy tools to underserved communities. This focus on equity ensures that the voices of the marginalized are more than just heard but valued and amplified in support of the principle that equal opportunity for all is a basic right.
Much of the organization's power comes through the bringing together of diverse sectors and communities. Be The Change, Inc. works with schools, municipalities, corporations, and other nonprofits by marshaling the particular strengths of each into an active coalition of change-makers. In so doing, the organization effectively tears down silos that would otherwise be headed by various groups to share knowledge, skills, and resources. This cooperative model does not only amplify its project scope but also shows that by working together, things could get done, which otherwise might have been difficult to achieve by a single entity.
Unique in many ways, perhaps one of the most defining aspects of the organization is its commitment to young leaders. Recognizing that today's youth are tomorrow's decision-makers, Be The Change, Inc. offers a mentorship program, leadership workshops, and opportunities for internships-all to equip young people with relevant leading skills. These programs invest not only in technical skills but also in values of integrity, accountability, and empathy. In investing in the next generation, the organization ensures that the work it does today will last well into the future, carried forward by future leaders committed to upholding the same ideals.
Another cornerstone of the work at Be The Change, Inc. is environmental stewardship. With increasing environmental challenges like climate change and resource depletion, the organization scaled up its operations in the promotion of sustainable practices at the community level. With activities ranging from tree-planting drives, to recycling, and advocating for sources of clean energy, Be The Change, Inc. promotes thinking directed at the consequences of daily choices. It not only helps in preserving the planet but also helps in developing a sense of responsibility and connectedness toward nature.
Be The Change, Inc. focuses on an important aspect of resiliency. Living in a world where so many communities are challenged by economic swings, natural disasters, and health crises, resiliency is key to overcoming adversity. The programs of the organization are, therefore, designed to enhance the capacity of communities to resist and recover from such adversities. Be The Change, Inc. trains and provides resources for the development of skills and strategies that could help these communities be better prepared and become more resilient. This focus on resilience actually is part of its broader objective-to effect sustainable change, which could last even in bad times.
It is this committed network of volunteers, donors, and supporters alike-sharing in its vision of a better future-that keeps the work of the organization going. These are individuals with diverse skills, experiences, and perspectives, which further enrich the organization's projects and embed their initiatives more firmly in the real needs and aspirations of the people they serve. These donors bring into view the fact that one particular single group cannot solely be held responsible for ensuring a change comes about but that it's a combined effort involving each and every aspect of life altogether.
Be The Change, Inc. moves forward with a very optimistic approach wherein most think the ills of the world are simply too overwhelming, this organization offers them hope. It fundamentally believes that no issue is too difficult to overcome when people unify towards a common purpose. It's this optimism that gives them fuel for their projects and helps inspire their supporters to believe that indeed, a more just world can be realized.
Lastly, Be The Change, Inc. is not an organization; it's a movement. A movement founded on the very idea that all can make a difference. In doing so, Be The Change, Inc. wants to make sure people everywhere know they are not helpless. Quite to the contrary, each belongs to a community of changemakers, making individual contributions as one community toward the common end of making the world one in which everyone has an opportunity to succeed. It's through little acts of kindness, community advocacy, or even much larger initiatives that this organization leads by example to prove: real change starts within the self. To this date, Be The Change, Inc. continues fostering inspiration and mobilization toward developing a world as good as humanity can be.